Copper stripped from A/C units at Burroughs High School in Ridgecrest

According to Ridgecrest Police, copper was stripped out of air conditioning units in multiple buildings at Burroughs High School, leaving the units damaged.

Police said copper theft has become a large problem for years in California.

23ABC reached out to Burroughs High School Principal Brian Auld who confirmed that three wings at the school had A/C units damaged. He said that the units still function and the air conditioning is running since the copper was stolen from the drainage part. 

Auld said that there's no impact on the start of school, but the drainage is now on the roof and awnings which has created a different problem.

“It’s frustrating," Auld said. "Someone went to a lot of effort for not a lot of value in copper, we’re frustrated and want justice, but we’re realistic about it.”

Auld said that they're working with the District as well as Ridgecrest Police to get the equipment repaired and find the people who did it.